Cold Weather Ahead

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- As expected, the Triangle saw a good soaking of rain today. By this evening, that rain in association with the sprawling storm along the Eastern Seaboard will be moving out, and we'll just have to contend with some gusty winds for a time. As the pressure gradient relaxes dramatically overnight, the wind will subside, and clearing skies combined with good cold advection will result in a low near freezing (though icy spots shouldn't be a problem, thanks to the wind following the end of the rain).

A much quieter period of weather is ahead for the end of the week and the start of the weekend, highlighted by a stout area of high pressure (perhaps nearing 1050 mb?) moving into the Northeast, along with a blast of cold air.

A much modified version of this cold blast will be found over the Carolinas, but temperatures will still end up several degrees below historical averages. A more easterly flow setting up beginning late Friday will result in a slight uptick in temperatures and cloudiness before our next chance of rain arrives Sunday.

There remains model differences as to how significant the next batch of rain will be come Sunday, as well as when it arrives. Given the strength of the high over the Northeast, we have solidified a delayed start until the afternoon a bit more, allowing for the rain (amount uncertain, at this time) to continue into the night. Another shortwave ridge should follow resulting in drier weather and a warm up into early next week.

Have a great evening!

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